Meet Cady Carlson Dill
Cady designs custom jewelry and objects, working with clients to create meaningful custom pieces, whether updating a family heirloom or creating something new from scratch. She has her own studio with the ability to create in high-level software to share ideas with clients, a milling machine that can create casting models or make a sample, and a professional engraving machine, as well as traditional bench jewelry tools that all work together to give her unique abilities for an independent jeweler.
She has received international recognition for her work and is a leader in the movement of jewelers working toward more ethical methods and sourcing. In her own business she incorporates the highest of ethical standards both in sourcing materials and upcycling the client’s own materials where possible.
She received training from Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia, where she earned a BA in Jewelry and a Concentration in Entrepreneurial Business in 2014; later that year launching Cady Carlson Designs. She also has studied in numerous workshops, and has received attention for her work in professional journals. In addition, she is certified by GIA in diamonds, as well as and keeps up to date in Matrix and Rhino CAD software, 3D printing and traditional casting methods. She is an active member in international jewelry forums, as well as the local art and technology communities, often incorporating both in her work. Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but with the help of modern communication methods, she works with clients and vendors all over the world.
FAQs
General FAQs
Where can I find your work?
You can find my work at MADE in downtown Tulsa, as well as on this website. I'm expanding to other stores soon, so please send me an email if you have a suggestion!
Do you have a public location?
I operate out of a private space and meet by appointment.
What are your hours?
I work from 9 AM to 5 PM CST Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Thursday mornings by appointment.
Sizing and Fitting FAQs
How can I get an engagement finger size for my partner without them knowing?
I recommend bringing in a ring that you know fits their right ring finger. If they are right handed, typically the right hand is one size larger; the opposite applies for left handed persons. We can size exactly after gifting as necessary.
What is my ring size?
Every ring sizer is a little different, so, many jewelers, including myself, prefer to use our own equipment. Make an appointment with me and we'll get you sized right away!
What kind of jewelry needs a custom fitting?
Rings! Often times, bracelets and ear climbers as well. All of these have standards sizes, but if possible, it is best to have them custom fitted. This is an included service in all custom design, and most of my store products.
Custom Design FAQs
What is the starting price for custom designs?
Gold and platinum pieces have a minimum charge of $950, and silver pieces typically have a minimum charge of $500.
How long does it take to make my custom design?
This of course varies on the nature of the job, but on average, it takes me 6 weeks from your approval of the finalized design.
Ethics FAQs
What is ethically sourced jewelry?
I'm glad you asked! For a full explanation, I recommend reading "A Complete Guide to Sustainable and Ethical Jewelry" at scsglobalservices.com. To summarize, 'ethical' and 'sustainable' jewelry are not the same thing, despite often being used interchangeably. "Ethical jewelry focuses on the people involved in making a certain piece. This includes the manufacturing process and the supply chain. The piece is fully traceable and doesn’t have a negative impact on the people who made it. It isn’t involved with conflict and supports the workers with fair wages and safe working conditions. Sustainable jewelry is about the effects manufacturing a piece of jewelry has on the environment. For jewelry to be sustainable, there shouldn’t be any negative impact on the planet." 'Fair Trade' and 'Fair Mined' are certifiable terms, and regulated by the WFTO.
Is your jewelry responsibly sourced?
Almost entirely! Every piece I make must meet rigorous standards. I am very proud of my supply chain (favorites include Columbia Gem House and Hoover & Strong). Unfortunately, most independent designers cannot guarantee that every element is 100% sustainable, ethical, etc. due to the current state of the industry and world trade, but by purchasing from jewelers who demand transparency and choose ethics at every opportunity, YOU make a difference. Together, we can be heard, and those in charge are beginning to listen.
Should I buy lab created diamonds or natural?
That is entirely up to you -- both have their benefits and drawbacks, and both are 100% real diamonds. Despite common perception, lab grown stones are NOT necessarily an ethical option -- aside from the massive energy consumption, the facilities are also often run in a sweat-shop setting. To circumvent this, I only use large SCS Certified or recycled lab created diamonds, at a fraction of the price of natural diamonds. Natural diamonds have a romantic element and are scientifically fascinating on a geological level, but that does come with an increased price point. In the US, natural diamonds can legally be described as "ethically sourced" because they are subject to the Kimberley Process. This is an important and necessary process! But it is consistently unreliable for true ethical standards. This is why I only use recycled, CanadaMark, or SCS Certified diamonds.
Are you LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes! I am in the business of love, and I want to share my work with people of all identities, faiths, and backgrounds.